Indian pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has defended Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management approach, while emphasizing that most people do not understand the physical and mental toll a fast bowler undertakes in executing while operating under pressure across all three formats. His comments come in the backdrop of criticism from many voices in the cricketing community, including some past cricketers, who questioned Bumrah’s selective engagement during the five-Test series in England.
Prior to the start of the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, it had already been set that Bumrah would play just three of the five Tests – a fact emphasized by chief selector Ajit Agarkar at the time of revealing the enlarged squad. Yet, the 31-year-old was criticized when he missed the series decider at The Oval. Surprisingly, India lost all three Tests that he played.
Even though he was not present, a young Indian team guided by Shubman Gill delivered a heart-stopping win in the fifth Test to equalize the series 2-2. Nonetheless, Bumrah’s choice was surrounded by controversy, with some criticizing him for not prioritizing a critical series. In an interview on the Cricket Stories Podcast with Manvendra, Bhuvneshwar contended that it’s not feasible to demand that Bumrah play just for the people, considering the toll fast bowlers take.
“Considering how many years Bumrah has been playing and competing in all formats, it is tough for anyone to sustain that. Given the kind of bowling action Bumrah has, injuries can happen to him or anyone. I had no problem with him playing three out of five matches,” Bhuvneshwar said.
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“If the selectors know what he can offer and are comfortable with it, it is because they know he can still make a big impact in those three games. If a player might not play all five matches but can contribute significantly in three, that should be acceptable – people do not always understand how tough it is to keep playing for so many years across formats.
“There is pressure as well. If you want someone to play for long, you have to manage him well. So, I did not have any problem.”
As per media reports, Bumrah will return to action with the Asia Cup T20 starting from 9 September. His presence for the forthcoming home Tests during the 2025–26 season is yet to be confirmed. India has scheduled to host West Indies for two Tests from October 2, while in November, they have a home series against South Africa.
